In 2022, several internet sources reported that Super Bowl LVI was THE largest sport betting sporting event in North America, including an increased percentage of prop bets ( x > 60%-70%). The Lombardi Line talk show reported a record handle at $179M+ (Las Vegas odds makers). The days of simply predicting a win/loss, quarter points, or basic point spread are far behind us. Micro-betting, early cash outs, prop bets and other in-game betting features have heightened the gambling experience, mirroring slot machines in its neuro-chemical impact on the brain. How much betting will this year’s Super Bowl draw in?

Did you know that we offer ambulatory BP monitor rentals? An ABPM consists of a BP cuff and a portable monitor that you wear for 24 hours. It gives your physician a complete picture of how your blood pressure changes during your daily activities and at different times of the day. If you are affected by “white coat syndrome,” when BP measurements are artificially elevated in the physician’s office, an ABPM can provide more accurate, real life results. If you have a prescription for this service, call us to schedule an appointment for our pharmacy team to set up the device for you.

During these dark winter months, the sun’s rays are not strong enough for our bodies to produce sufficient Vitamin D. This is why Osteoporosis Canada recommends that most Canadian adults should take a daily vitamin D supplement. Vitamin D plays an essential role in bone health by facilitating the absorption of calcium. It also helps maintain muscles and reduce the risk of fractures caused by falls. Some studies have suggested that it may reduce the risk of certain diseases. Talk with one of our pharmacists about recommended doses or to learn more about other supplements, vitamins and minerals.

Post-holiday debt can pile up quickly. Rising interest rates and the cost of living, food and fuel can become very overwhelming. Sometimes gambling can be seen as a quick fix to achieve financial relief. When we’re vulnerable, gambling can cost us more than money; it can also cost our relationships, our mental and physical health. If finances are tight, seek credit counselling; talk to your bank or financial advisor. Gambling is meant to be entertainment and not a solution to financial problems. Reach out to us here at VI Gaming Support. We’re here to help!

Keep your eyes open for a Comox Valley Seniors Resource Guide coming in 2023. 20,000 copies of this spiral bound guide are being created in partnership between Comox Valley Senior Support and Denman and Hornby Community Health Care Services and will be available free of charge.

Maintaining relationships and spending time with others is essential to our emotional and mental well-being. It can help prevent depression which affects 20 percent of the population over 70 years of age. Socializing also keeps the mind active and improvements are greater when the person is involved in fun interests with other people. Plan regular get-togethers with friends, such as a weekly lunch date or coffee with another senior or loved one. Scheduling social interactions give us something to look forward to on a regular basis. For those who are truly adventurous you can enjoy new experiences and meet new people by signing up for travel tours, book clubs, and much more at your local community centre.

Winter months bring on more then cold temperatures; they often bring on winter blues. Many seniors experience depression due to lack of sunshine, activities, and socializing.
Come in out of the cold into the warmth of the Comox Seniors’ Centre at 1801 Beaufort Ave in Comox. Enjoy a coffee and meal at Dei’s Cafe with friends or meet new acquaintances. Pick up Dei’s hot meals to go; ask what’s on the menu. Check out our library for a good book, DVD, or puzzle. Looking for a handmade gift for someone special; our best kept secret Gift Shop is waiting for you. Become a member and participate in the many activities available.
The Centre is always looking for volunteers. Chase those winter blues away at the Comox Seniors’ Centre.

Mental illness is not a normal part of aging. All seniors have the right and deserve to receive services and care that promotes their mental health and responds to their mental illness needs. The Canadian Coalition for Seniors’ Mental Health (CCSMH) is hard at work ensuring that seniors’ mental health is recognized as a key Canadian health and wellness issue. To see the services and supports offered by CCSMH, please see their website: https://ccsmh.ca

Here are some home security tips from the RCMP’s Seniors Guidebook to Safety and Security.
• Conduct a security check of your home to determine possible entry points and any weaknesses they may have. • Keep all entrances and garages well-lit at night. • Don’t leave tell-tale signs that you are away, such as leaving your curtains undrawn at night, or an absence of a car in the driveway.
• Install good locks and always use them. • Install a wide-angle viewer in your front door which allows you to see visitors before you open the door. • Never open a door to strangers without credentials. • Change your routine often. Burglars often watch activities in a neighbourhood. • Mark valuable items for identification. The operation identification program has been developed by police to assist people in marking their property.
• Keep valuables in a safety deposit box at your bank. If this isn’t possible, keep them locked up in a reasonable hiding place in your home.

Did you know? Comox Valley Senior Support is now providing outreach services to the Cumberland 50+ Drop In on the first Friday of each month from 10 till Noon. That’s right! CVSS staff are striking out into the community to trial outreach supports. We are starting with Cumberland, but plan to expand outreach to all the outlying communities by mid-2023.
If you know of a place where CVSS might be a good fit, please contact Chris at [email protected].